The UAE participates in a high-level dialogue on soft power and economic flexibility within the framework of “Davos”

The United Arab Emirates participated in a high-level dialogue session that discussed the role of soft power in enhancing economic flexibility and rebuilding confidence in a world witnessing increasing volatility, as part of the 2026 annual meeting of the World Economic Forum.

The session came as part of the Global Soft Power Summit, which was held in Davos for the first time, with the participation of an elite group of international leaders, to discuss how countries deal with geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and changing global perceptions, through reliable and forward-looking national strategies.

Participating in the session were Justin Trudeau, former Prime Minister of Canada, Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, and David Hague, founder and CEO of Brand Finance.

The discussions focused on soft power as a strategic asset in a world where conflict, competition, and the reformulation of economic blocs are increasing.

The session discussed the results of the Global Soft Power Index 2026, which measures the image of countries and their influence around the world, based on the opinions of more than 150,000 participants from 193 countries.

Participants discussed how reputation, trust, education, governance, innovation, and economic credibility have become critical factors in consolidating long-term national competitiveness and enhancing resilience, alongside traditional elements of strength.

Justin Trudeau emphasized that escalating economic and geopolitical pressures are reshaping international relations, stressing the increasing importance of credibility, continuity, and values-based leadership in maintaining global trust and influence.

He noted that soft power, when based on authenticity and long-term commitment, can support stability and cooperation and enhance adaptive capacity even in times of global uncertainty.

For her part, Sarah Al Amiri highlighted the role of education, science, and future skills as essential pillars of national soft power, stressing that investment in human capital, knowledge systems, and innovation environments constitutes a pivotal factor in shaping the global image of countries, enhancing their economic flexibility, and enabling their societies to adapt to rapid transformations.

She explained that countries that place education and preparing for the future at the top of their priorities are better able to build confidence, attract talent, and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly complex global environment.

David Hague reviewed the most prominent outcomes of the Global Soft Power Index 2026, pointing to the transformations taking place in global perceptions in light of declining levels of confidence and the challenges facing the reputation of a number of countries.

He stressed that soft power has become an essential tool for enhancing economic flexibility, because of its role in supporting investor confidence, enhancing trade relations, and maintaining presence and influence in the international arena.

He pointed out that countries that invest strategically in reputation, governance, education, sustainability, and innovation are better able to confront external shocks and manage periods of turmoil.

The session discussed the direct relationship between soft power and economic outcomes, through its impact on investment flows, commercial partnerships, attracting talent, and enhancing global confidence.

The participants stressed that the increasing convergence between soft power and economic strategy reflects a fundamental shift in the role of national identity, as the national brand is no longer just a communication tool, but has become an essential element in economic and development policies.

The session touched on the role of education, innovation, and responsible governance in formulating future-oriented national narratives, as participants agreed that countries that are able to align their economic ambitions with social progress, sustainability, and human development are best able to maintain long-term impact and sustainable competitiveness in the coming years.

The session emphasized that soft power does not constitute a substitute for economic foundations, but rather represents a multiplier factor that enhances flexibility, establishes confidence, and supports value creation in the long term.

The speakers agreed that building stable and future-ready economies requires reliable national strategies based on education, innovation and international cooperation.

This dialogue reflects the UAE’s broad participation in the work of the World Economic Forum 2026, as the country continues its active contribution to global discussions on economic flexibility, governance, education, and sustainable development, affirming its role as a constructive and forward-looking partner committed to enhancing international cooperation and contributing to building a more balanced and resilient global economy.